How do I know if my plaster needs replacing?

• <div><p>Plaster that sags or bulges, shows extensive deep cracks, or is crumbling from water damage or simply time may need replacement. Plaster walls can look a little “worn” for a long time before they need replacing. The only real way to know if it needs a replacement is to hire a professional to assess the condition of the plaster.</p></div>

What type of plaster is the most durable?

• <div><p>With its breathability and flexibility, lime plaster is among the most durable of all plaster types. It's also fire-resistant and has a proven track record, as people have been using it for thousands of years.</p><p>However, all plaster types will last for many years with the right care and treatment. Proper preparation and installation will also help ensure your plaster walls look great for as long as possible.</p></div>

Get matched with top plaster repair specialists in Cavalier, ND

Q: What is the difference between spackle and joint compound, and which should I use for drywall repairs?

• <div><p>Although they have similar applications, spackle and joint compound are not the same. Their primary differences lie in their composition, consistency, and ideal use cases.</p><p>Spackle is composed of gypsum and binding agents, making it thicker than joint compound. It dries quickly and is easy to sand, which makes it ideal for small wall repair projects like filling nail holes or patching minor damage.</p><p>Joint compound, also known as drywall mud, consists of limestone and gypsum. It is primarily used for large-scale projects, such as taping and finishing the seams on newly installed drywall. It tends to shrink more than spackle and can be more difficult to spread.</p><p>While both products can be used to fill small depressions and cracks, spackle cannot replace joint compound for taping and mudding new drywall. Conversely, you can often use joint compound for small patching jobs typically done with spackle.</p></div>

Q: Do you sand plaster wet or dry?

• <div><p>While it&rsquo;s most common to sand plaster dry, it is possible to wet-sand plaster, too. Doing so can reduce the amount of plaster dust released into the air and make it easier to work in smaller, more delicate areas (such as around wall trim). However, some people find that wet sanding leads to more imperfections, which is why larger walls are more often dry sanded to ensure an even finish.</p></div>

Q: Is it difficult to DIY plaster?

• <div><p>Plaster can be a difficult DIY to master, especially if you plan to plaster an entire room, rather than patch a small area. Before you begin a plaster DIY project, you need to know which tools and type of plaster to use. It's also important to know how to prepare the surface and apply the plaster for a smooth finish. If that all sounds like a lot of work, you may prefer <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/repair-plaster/">hiring a local plaster repair contractor</a> to do the job.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Plaster Repair pros in Cavalier, ND

*The Angi rating for Plaster Repair companies in Cavalier, ND is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Plaster Repair needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Plaster Repair companies in Cavalier, ND is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Plaster Repair needs.

Last update on January 22, 2024

Reviewed in January 2024
Came in and did a hard job with very little guidance
KRS Contracting
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Reviewed in June 2022
I enjoyed working with them.
North Valley Enterprises LLC
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Reviewed in October 2017
They show up on time, are courteous, professional and did a great job getting debris off my lawn from Irma.
Junk King Orlando
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Reviewed in June 2017
Any question you could ask me I could not think of any negative. A double A on anything you could ask me, there are zero negatives. I would use them again and I have been using them for years, and I am not about to switch to anyone else.
KING'S HELPER
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Reviewed in June 2017
I would give them an A for everything they do or I would not be using them. I would use them again. The people who come out depend on what they are doing. I have had them do different things for me at different times. Sometimes there are 1 or 2 people sometimes there are 5 or 6. They are nice...
ALL MASTERS HEATING & AIR
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Reviewed in June 2017
I have used them for years. I am not about to use anyone else.
Thoreson Plumbing Inc
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Reviewed in February 2015
This was my first time using Melton's Maintenance, but will not be the last. Scott spent the time to go over options of materials and cost's for my screens and old vinyl.. He was professional, courteous and never stopped until the job was done, including cleaning up.
Melton's Maintenance
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Reviewed in June 2013
Dean was great. He showed up on time, and very quickly. The only way I discoverd he had been there, when the lights worked properly. Very neat and tidy as well.
LATOZKE ELECTRIC LLC
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Reviewed in May 2012
Showed up when he was supposed to and went to work on the project immediately. Very cheerful, positive attitude! Nice young man. He is very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
Swartz Plumbing Heating & Cool
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Reviewed in March 2012
There service was very good. The technician was on time, courteous and very professional. He did not try and sell me anything I didn't need.
JENSON AIR CONDITIONING & HTG
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Find Plaster repair specialists in Cavalier

H&M Drywall, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Cavalier, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

H&M Drywall LLC has a single mission: Complete Customer Satisfaction! We strongly believe in giving our customers the most for their money. So, we work with only the highest quality materials, experienced and professional craftsmen. We have consistently focused on the needs of our customers, providing personalized attention and a stress-free experience.

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Veras Construction

New to Angi

Serving Cavalier, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We here at Veras Construction take pride our work and always pay attention to the minor details. Our customers know they can rely on us no matter what the project may be. We are always going the extra mile to ensure quality on everything we do. For prompt and professional work, call us today for your painting needs.

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Luis A Drywall LLC

New to Angi

Serving Cavalier, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

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Triangle Cenit Construction, LLC

2.0(

)

Serving Cavalier, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Free estimates

We serve North Dakota with best in class service for roofing, drywall and plaster projects. Call us so we can show you why our 25 years of experience will help you get the job done right the first time. Let us show you why most of our first time customers become long term clients!

Response time1 day

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Plaster Repair questions, answered by experts

Although they have similar applications, spackle and joint compound are not the same. Their primary differences lie in their composition, consistency, and ideal use cases.

Spackle is composed of gypsum and binding agents, making it thicker than joint compound. It dries quickly and is easy to sand, which makes it ideal for small wall repair projects like filling nail holes or patching minor damage.

Joint compound, also known as drywall mud, consists of limestone and gypsum. It is primarily used for large-scale projects, such as taping and finishing the seams on newly installed drywall. It tends to shrink more than spackle and can be more difficult to spread.

While both products can be used to fill small depressions and cracks, spackle cannot replace joint compound for taping and mudding new drywall. Conversely, you can often use joint compound for small patching jobs typically done with spackle.

While it’s most common to sand plaster dry, it is possible to wet-sand plaster, too. Doing so can reduce the amount of plaster dust released into the air and make it easier to work in smaller, more delicate areas (such as around wall trim). However, some people find that wet sanding leads to more imperfections, which is why larger walls are more often dry sanded to ensure an even finish.

Plaster that sags or bulges, shows extensive deep cracks, or is crumbling from water damage or simply time may need replacement. Plaster walls can look a little “worn” for a long time before they need replacing. The only real way to know if it needs a replacement is to hire a professional to assess the condition of the plaster.

With its breathability and flexibility, lime plaster is among the most durable of all plaster types. It's also fire-resistant and has a proven track record, as people have been using it for thousands of years.

However, all plaster types will last for many years with the right care and treatment. Proper preparation and installation will also help ensure your plaster walls look great for as long as possible.

Plaster can be a difficult DIY to master, especially if you plan to plaster an entire room, rather than patch a small area. Before you begin a plaster DIY project, you need to know which tools and type of plaster to use. It's also important to know how to prepare the surface and apply the plaster for a smooth finish. If that all sounds like a lot of work, you may prefer hiring a local plaster repair contractor to do the job.

The Cavalier, ND homeowners’ guide to plaster repairs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
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How Much Does It Cost to Apply Venetian Plaster? [2026 Data]
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What Is Behind Your Lath and Plaster Walls?
You can find plaster walls in a lot of older homes. What’s behind these walls—whether that’s lath or calcimine—can have an impact on how long they last. Finding out the age of your house can help you determine what you’re dealing with.
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Who Does Plaster Work and What Is Their Job Like?
Who does plaster work? A plasterer, of course—one who’s gone through years of training to master this subtle construction art. Here’s what you need to know.